Distinct functions for Rap1 signaling in vascular morphogenesis and dysfunction. Exp Cell Res 2013 Sep 10;319(15):2350-9
Date
08/06/2013Pubmed ID
23911990Pubmed Central ID
PMC3913003DOI
10.1016/j.yexcr.2013.07.022Scopus ID
2-s2.0-84883210190 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 41 CitationsAbstract
Rap1 signaling is important for both major processes of vessel formation: vasculogenesis, or de novo vessel formation, and angiogenesis, sprouting of new vessels from pre-existing ones. We provide an overview of genetic studies in mice and zebrafish and discuss some of the proposed underlying mechanisms derived from cellular models, with particular emphasis on Rap1's role in angiogenesis, maintenance of endothelial barrier and connection with cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM), a neurological deficit that leads to seizures and lethal stroke. Lastly, we provide a brief summary of studies in cardiac and smooth muscle cells, where the Epac-Rap1 signaling axis is emerging as an important regulator of contractility.
Author List
Chrzanowska-Wodnicka MAuthor
Magdalena Chrzanowska PhD Associate Professor in the Pharmacology and Toxicology department at Medical College of WisconsinMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
AnimalsBlood Vessels
Central Nervous System Neoplasms
Endothelial Cells
Endothelium, Vascular
Gene Expression Regulation
Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factors
Hemangioma, Cavernous, Central Nervous System
Mice
Morphogenesis
Neovascularization, Pathologic
Neovascularization, Physiologic
Signal Transduction
Zebrafish
rap1 GTP-Binding Proteins
